Full of life and a gorgeous, dynamic culture, Spain is one of Europe’s sexiest destinations. It’s easy to see why Hemingway was so obsessed with Spain. Spain is a country that knows how to live the good life. Its people are full of passion, its food is enticing, its music is lively, its traditions are still celebrated and its history is fascinating. Plus, there is nothing like a true Spanish fiesta. Streets are filled with happy people well past midnight – the Spanish people truly know what it means to live in the moment and enjoy life.
Getting There And Around
Madrid’s massive airport is often the arrival airport for flights from the United States, Canada, New Zealand and Australia. Other major international airports in Spain include Barcelona, Seville and Valencia.
Vueling, Spain’s budget airline, offers discount flights from many major cities throughout Europe and within Spain. This airline services Spain’s major destinations.
Getting around in Spain is easy, mainly due to its well-connected and speedy rail system. Renfe, the national rail line in Spain, offers quick connections from major cities and other not-so-central destinations. There are numerous other rail companies, such as Ave and Alvia, that offer high-speed trains between major cities. Buses are a great option for travelers who have a bit more time, and want to save a little cash. Bus companies offer many different route options, but traveling via bus is time consuming and not recommended for visitors with limited time.
Money
Since Spain is a member of the European Union, the official currency used in Spain is the euro. Eight coins belong to the euro, ranging from from 1 cent to 2 euros. The coins differ in size and metal. Banknotes range from 5-500, and differ in size and color. The larger the size of the banknote, the higher its value.
Language
The official national language is Spanish, although some regions of the country also speak different languages (Catalan, Basque, Galician and Occitan).
Spanish translations:
Hello – Hola
Goodbye – Adios
Thank You – Gracias
Please – Por favor
Excuse Me – Perdoname
Sorry – Lo siento
Friend – Amigo
Beer – Cerveza
Wine – Vino
No – No
Yes – Sí
Housing
Compared to other Western European countries, accommodation prices in Spain are low. The cost of housing in Spain varies greatly by region and time of year. The islands are busy with tourists year-round, so prices tend to be pretty stable except for around holiday seasons when they increase drastically. During festivals, special events and holidays, prices of accommodations in mainland Spain skyrocket. This country has many hostels, private accommodations, name brand and five-star resorts to choose from.
Food
Did someone say tapas? Food is the center of social interaction in Spain, and this country offers so much more than its delicious tapas. Cuisine varies by region, using ingredients grown in those areas. Spanish food is rich, flavorful and served in large portions (with the exception of tapas). Don’t leave Spain without trying its famed paella (a rice dish with sausages, seafood, peppers and local spices served piping hot), patatas bravas (fried potatoes served with a spicy sauce), albondigas (Spanish meatballs) and chorizo (Pamplona has a particularly delicious chorizo).
Sangria, a refreshing fruity wine drink, is served as often as water in Spain. The country produces some incredible wines in its ten wine regions, although it is not as famous for its productions as are Italy or France.
Save Cash
Spain is not a cheap country to visit, especially when dining out. During the day, grab a cheap bocadillo (sandwich) at a shop. They’re filled with quality Spanish meats and cheeses at a fraction of the price you would pay at a restaurant. Not only do you save money, but you can spend more time at the attractions as well.
If planning on doing a lot of sightseeing within the cities, purchase a city card. You can save up to twenty percent on entrance fees, and some sights even offer free entry.
With time permitting, take the bus instead of flying or taking the train. Planes and trains are quicker, but often much more expensive – even on budget airlines. Bus tickets are much more affordable.
Stay Fit
Spain has many activities for the outdoor loving and active traveler. The Pyrenees and the Picos de Europa are gorgeous snow-capped mountain ranges that offer some of the most scenic hiking in Europe. Mallorca and Tenerif are more than just destination islands with picturesque beaches; there are many mountain villages sprinkled across these islands, and the islands have some incredible biking trails.
Stay Connected
In the major tourist areas in Spain, Wi-Fi is available at some cafes, restaurants and bars and nearly all accommodations. Prepaid SIM cards are available for purchase at any of Spain’s local mobile stores. SIM cards will only work on unlocked tri-band mobile phones.
In Spain, the electrical outlets used are the two-prong 220V type-C/F, which are typical in Europe.
